Financial Services Officer 2

About Us

The Department of Municipal Affairs is dedicated to working with municipalities to build healthy, vibrant, and safe communities throughout Nova Scotia. Municipal Affairs provides programs, grants, and funding opportunities for municipalities and community groups. The Department also provides services and guidance to municipalities in many areas including land use planning, budget planning and finance, infrastructure development, policy and program development.

The Department of Municipal Affairs is also responsible for ensuring the availability of safe, suitable, and affordable housing for all Nova Scotians. Our work involves making strategic investments, leveraging new funding, and building on critical partnerships to help further position ourselves to meet current and future housing challenges.

About Our Opportunity

Under the guidance of the Senior Financial Analyst (SFA) within the Municipal Infrastructure Division, you will play a pivotal role in our organization's financial operations. As a Financial Services Officer, you will be responsible for meticulously managing financial accounting and reporting for an array of federal, provincial, and municipal cost-shared programs with the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Secretariat. 

Your expertise will be instrumental in ensuring the success and transparency of vital infrastructure initiatives that have a meaningful impact on communities across Nova Scotia.

Primary Accountabilities

• Examine project claims for accuracy and compliance.
• Prepare payment requisitions for approved claims.
• Generate recovery claims as necessary.
• Offer guidance to municipalities regarding the claims processing procedure.
• Produce financial and statistical reports to aid decision-making.
• Provide recommendations and comprehensive support to the Senior Financial Analyst, management, and stakeholders.
• Reconcile program expenditure and recovery accounts with the Provincial Government accounting system.
• Collaborate effectively within a team to enforce accountability and financial controls.
• Ensure the integrity of claims processing and financial analysis.
• Deliver accurate and timely information to support departmental objectives.

Qualifications and Experience

You have completed three (3) years of post‐secondary professional accounting training and have at least five (5) years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Essential qualifications include:

• Sound understanding of Public Sector accounting principles.
• High proficiency in computer-based accounting software and spreadsheet packages, including MS Excel.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills when connecting with various stakeholders and professionals.
• Self-motivation and ability to work independently with strong prioritization skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, meeting deadlines, and perform well under pressure.
• Initiative and ability to exercise sound judgment in decision-making.
• Commitment to delivering outstanding client service and building strong relationships.

Assets include:

• Knowledge of the Provincial Government SAP accounting system and procedures
• Experience in cost-shared government programs
• Experience working with federal and municipal government representatives and multi-stakeholder environment
   

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include, but are not limited to:
 

• A related 2-year diploma and six (6) years of related experience.
• Eight (8) years of related experience

 
Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

This position offers a balanced and supportive working environment with a regular work week of 35 hours, and 7-hour days. You will be based in a modern office setting, with occasional travel to project locations throughout the province. Work outside normal business hours may be necessary during peak periods or when specific circumstances demand.

Additional Information

This is a two (2) year Term employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of December 13, 2027.  The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• Department specific flexible working schedules